In response to a letter to the editor, we certainly agree that Larry Hisle is one of the nicest gentlemen we know and he has been honored by Portsmouth Murals Inc.

At the 2007 baseball banquet, I announced from the podium that Larry still works for the Milwaukee Brewers and had a work situation that prevented him from attending.

I also stated we have great expectations that he will be attending next year.

For the benefit of the writer and others, the 2005 banquet was dedicated to the first phase of the mural and we honored Branch Rickey, Al Bridwell, Rocky Nelson and Al Oliver.

The 2006 banquet was dedicated to the second phase of the mural and we honored John Stephenson, Larry Hisle, Gene Tenace, Stan Spence, Del Rice and Dude Blake.

The 2007 banquet was dedicated to the final phase of the mural and we honored Wayne Blackburn, Billy Doyle, Frank Rickey, Terry Craft, Don Gullet and Gene Bennett.

Because of the overwhelming response we have had, plans are underway to organize the 2008 banquet and all past living honorees will be invited back to Portsmouth.

All proceeds from these banquets go to Portsmouth Murals, Inc. for continuing yearly maintenance of the murals and the development of new murals.

In closing, we appreciate all the sponsors who over the last three years have helped us to present these honorees to all of you.

Each year we have seen an increase in baseball personalities and public attendance.

Our board of trustees have enjoyed giving our community the opportunity to come and be a part of the banquet and the mural project.

Robert Morton,

president

Portsmouth